Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General Sani Kukasheka Usman, in a statement on Tuesday, said the rescue was a result of a major offensive against suspected Boko Haram hideouts.

The statement read in part, “At the Kutila village, the troops came under heavy attack from the terrorists.

“The troops responded and dealt with the Boko Haram terrorists by neutralising and routing them out of the area. Several others escaped into the thick forest with gunshot wounds.”

The Army spokesman said disclosed that the troops recovered one Gun truck, one Canter vehicle and one pick up from the terrorists.

He said two freshly prepared suicide bombing vests and maize grinding machine were recovered.

“The gallant soldiers proceeded further to clear Bok, Misherde, Mika and Kutila also in Kala Balge Local Government Area of Borno State, where they liberated 455 persons held hostage by the terrorists.

“The rescued persons after thorough screening have been moved to Rann Internally Displaced Persons camp. You are please requested to disseminate this information to the public through your medium.”